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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20160978 Ver 2_Polecat BPDP for PN_20180129Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 1 November 2017 Bank Parcel Development Plan Polecat Mitigation Site (DWR #2016-0978v2) Johnston County, North Carolina Neuse River Basin HUC 03020201 Prepared by: Bank Sponsor: EBX-Neuse I, LLC, 302 Jefferson Street, Suite 110 Raleigh, NC 27605 919-209-1056 November 2017 Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 2 November 2017 Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................. 3 1.1 Parcel Location ............................................................................................................................. 3 1.2 Parcel Overview............................................................................................................................ 3 2 PROJECT AREA – EXISTING CONDITIONS ............................................................................. 4 2.1 Physiography ................................................................................................................................ 4 2.2 Soils .............................................................................................................................................. 4 2.3 Existing Vegetative Communities ................................................................................................ 6 2.4 Wetlands ....................................................................................................................................... 8 2.5 Threatened and Endangered Species ............................................................................................ 8 2.6 Environmental and Cultural Constraints ...................................................................................... 9 2.7 FEMA Floodplain/Floodway Mapping ...................................................................................... 10 3 RIPARIAN RESTORATION AND PRESERVATION PLAN ................................................... 10 3.1 Parcel Preparation ....................................................................................................................... 10 3.2 Riparian Restoration Activities .................................................................................................. 11 3.3 Riparian Preservation Activities ................................................................................................. 11 3.4 Planting Plan ............................................................................................................................... 11 3.5 Easement Boundaries and Fencing ............................................................................................. 12 3.6 Proposed Credit Release Schedule ............................................................................................. 12 4 MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE PLAN ........................................................................... 13 4.1 Monitoring Protocol and Success Criteria .................................................................................. 13 4.2 Adaptive Management Plan & Parcel Maintenance................................................................... 14 4.3 Long Term Management Plan .................................................................................................... 14 5 FINANCIAL ASSURANCE ............................................................................................................ 15 6 MITIGATION POTENTIAL .......................................................................................................... 15 7 REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................. 17 APPENDIX Appendix A– Supporting Figures Figure 1. Service Area Map Figure 2. Project Vicinity Map Figure 3. Existing Conditions Figure 4. Conceptual Design Plan for Riparian Buffer and Nutrient Offset Credit Determination Figure 5. Conceptual Design and Credit determination for Stream and Wetland Mitigation Figure 6. USGS Topographic Map Figure 7. Soils Map Figure 8. National Wetlands Inventory Map Figure 9. FEMA Map Appendix B- Correspondence Appendix C- Conservation Easement and Plat (will be provided when complete) Appendix D- Existing Conditions Photos (January 10, 2018) Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 3 November 2017 1 INTRODUCTION EBX–Neuse I, LLC (EBX), an entity of Resource Environmental Solutions (RES), is pleased to provide this Bank Parcel Development Plan (BPDP) for the Polecat Riparian Buffer & Nutrient Offset Mitigation Bank. This Parcel is designed to provide riparian buffer mitigation credits for unavoidable impacts due to development within the Neuse River Basin, United States Geological Survey (‘USGS’) 8-digit Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC – 03020201) excluding the Falls Lake Watershed. In addition, it will also provide nutrient offset credits in the 03020201 HUC, excluding the Falls Lake Watershed, for existing and proposed development requiring such mitigation (Figure 1). This BPDP is in accordance with the Consolidated Buffer Mitigation Rule 15A NCAC 02B .0295, 15A NCAC 02B.0240 and the RES Neuse Umbrella Mitigation Banking Instrument for Riparian Buffer Mitigation and Nutrient Offset Credits (UMBI), made and entered into by EBX-Neuse I, LLC acting as the Bank Sponsor (Sponsor), and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality-Division of Water Resources (DWR). Supporting figures can be found in Appendix A. The BPDP has also been designed in concurrence with the Polecat Stream Mitigation Site in the Neu-Con Stream and Wetland Umbrella Mitigation Bank (SAW# 2016-01986). The mitigation plan for the Polecat Stream Mitigation Site has been approved by the North Carolina Interagency Review Team (IRT). 1.1 Parcel Location The Polecat Parcel is located in Johnston County approximately two miles southeast of Smithfield, NC (Figure 2). The Parcel is located within Neuse River Basin USGS 14-digit HUC 03020201140010, a Targeted Local Watershed, and North Carolina Division of Water Resources (NC DWR) Subbasin Number 03-04-02. To access the Site from the town of Smithfield, head south on Mallard Road for approximately 1.5 miles. The coordinates of the site are 35.476199°N and -78.312849°W. 1.2 Parcel Overview When combining the Polecat Stream Mitigation Site with the Polecat Buffer and Nutrient Offset Mitigation Bank, the conservation easement will total approximately 53.1 acres and includes Polecat Branch and its unnamed tributaries that flow directly to the Neuse River. The Parcel is located in a watershed dominated by agricultural fields, cattle pastures and wooded areas. A majority of the Parcel is utilized for livestock grazing, pasture, and row-crop production. Additional land use practices including the maintenance and removal of riparian vegetation and the relocation, dredging and straightening of onsite streams has resulted in degraded water quality and unstable channel characteristics. The Polecat Stream Mitigation Site is proposed to provide stream restoration on approximately 8,000 linear feet of streams within the conservation easement through a separate mitigation banking instrument. Figure 3 shows the existing stream channels and Figure 4 shows the proposed conceptual design for riparian buffer and nutrient offset credits. Figure 5 shows the proposed stream channel designs for the stream mitigation bank. Restoration of the riparian areas adjacent to each stream onsite is anticipated to result in immediate water quality benefits within the vicinity of the Parcel through the removal of livestock access to Parcel streams and reduction in nutrient loads from agricultural land uses. The riparian restoration activities within the Parcel will also result in improved water quality within the downstream watershed. In the western extent of the proposed easement, Polecat Branch, consisting of reaches PC1, PC2, and PC3, is a perennial stream that flows in a southwesterly direction through the Parcel. An unnamed tributary consisting of reaches KZ1, KZ2, KZ4, KZ6, and MI1 is a perennial channel which Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 4 November 2017 flows in a southwesterly direction until it confluences with an unnamed tributary consisting of reach KZ3 and turns and flows in a west-northwesterly direction before draining into Polecat Branch within the easement. The unnamed tributary consisting of KZ3 is an intermittent channel that flows in a northwesterly direction before draining into the unnamed tributary consisting of KZ1, KZ2, KZ4, KZ6, and MI1. Another unnamed tributary consisting of reach KZ0 is an intermittent channel which flows in a northwesterly direction before also draining into the unnamed tributary consisting of reaches KZ1, KZ2, KZ4, KZ6, and MI1. An unnamed tributary consisting of reach KZ5 begins as a ditch and transitions to an intermittent channel flowing in a southwesterly direction before draining into the unnamed tributary consisting of reaches KZ1, KZ2, KZ4, KZ6, and MI1. Stream Classification Forms were completed at representative locations throughout the project area and stream determinations were confirmed by NCDWR staff during a site visit on August 19, 2016. Correspondence regarding this determination is in Appendix B. The Polecat Bank Parcel is being proposed to restore and enhance stream systems with their adjacent riparian buffers and their functions and values to compensate, in appropriate circumstances, for unavoidable stream and riparian buffer impacts and nutrient load reduction requirements. The buffer mitigation plan proposed on this Bank is being submitted for review under the Temporary Consolidated Buffer Mitigation Rule 15A NCAC 02B .0295 as well as conditions specified in the RES Neuse Riparian Buffer and Nutrient Offset Umbrella Mitigation Banking Instrument. DWR staff performed an onsite viability assessment for buffer mitigation and nutrient offset on September 20, 2016. Correspondence regarding this assessment is provided in Appendix B. 2 PROJECT AREA – EXISTING CONDITIONS 2.1 Physiography The Parcel is in the Rolling Coastal Plain Physiographic Province. Soils in the Coastal Plain region formed in sediment deposits several millions of years ago by the ocean and streams; however, the floodplains along the Neuse River consist of fairly recent deposits. These deposits are not as weathered as the sediments in the Coastal Plain region. The site is located on the Polecat Branch floodplain and has a gently rolling topography. Elevations range from 115 to 150 feet above mean sea level (NAD 27) based upon USGS mapping (Figure 6). Four unnamed tributaries on the Polecat Bank Parcel as well as overland flow of stormwater drain into Polecat Branch and eventually the Neuse River. All streams are classified as Class C; NSW. Class C waters are suitable for aquatic life, secondary recreation, and agricultural usage. The NSW is a designation for nutrient sensitive waters – intended for waters needing additional nutrient management due to being subject to excessive growth of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation. Natural drainage patterns throughout the watershed have been altered by cultivation and dredging of the channels. Within the proposed mitigation area, the channels drain surface water and groundwater from the surrounding row crop agriculture and cattle pastures. 2.2 Soils The soils within the Rolling Coastal Plain region of Johnston County formed in sediments deposited several million years ago by the oceans and streams. The floodplains along the Neuse River consist of relatively recent deposits of sediments that are not as highly weathered as sediments in the Coastal Plain Region. Much of the county is well drained; however, several areas are poorly drained. The Parcel is located within the Rains-Goldsboro-Lynchburg soil association. Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 5 November 2017 The Rains-Goldsboro-Lynchburg association is found in broad, level interstream areas that are relatively undissected by streams. The major soils are Rains, Goldsboro, and Lynchburg. The soils range from poorly to moderately well-drained. The soils are well suited to cropland and woodlands found within the county. The wetness is the main limitation affecting agricultural uses on the Rains and Lynchburg soils. The Johnston County Soil Survey shows several mapping units across the project site. Map units include eight soil series (Figure 7). The upland soils found in this area of the county formed in sandy sediments from marine and fluviomarine deposits, loamy alluvium, or clayey Coastal Plain sediments. The upland soils at this site are on a river terrace above the active floodplain. The soil series found on the site are described below and summarized in Table 1. Table 1. Parcel Mapped Soil Series Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Percent Hydric Drainage Class Hydrologic Soil Group Landscape Setting Bb Bibb sandy loam, 0- 2% slopes 90% Poor A/D Floodplains CoB Cowarts loamy sand, 2-6% slopes 0% Well C Ridges on marine terraces GoA Goldsboro sandy loam, 0 -2% slopes 2% Moderately well B Flats on marine terraces, broad interstream divides on marine terraces Ly Lynchburg sandy loam, 0-2% slopes 6% Somewhat Poor A/D Flats on marine terraces, broad interstream divides on marine terraces NoA Norfolk loamy sand, 0- 2% slopes 5% Well A Flats on marine terraces, broad interstream divides on marine terraces Ra Rains sandy loam, 0- 2% slopes 90% Poor A/D Carolina bays on marine terraces, broad interstream divides on marine terraces, flats on marine terraces Tn Toisnot loam, 0-2% slopes 90% Poor C/D Carolina bays on marine terraces, broad interstream divides on marine terraces, flats on marine terraces Ud Udorthents, loamy 0% Well C linear Bibb sandy loam. This is a very deep, poorly drained soil found on flood plains of the Coastal Plain. Slopes are generally less than 2%. Soils formed in stratified sandy alluvium and have very slow runoff with Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 6 November 2017 moderate permeability. The water table is generally within 8 inches of the surface for six to eleven months of the year. Bibb sandy loams occurs along the entirety of Project streams and their floodplains. Cowarts loamy sand. This is a very deep, moderately well and well-drained soil that occurs on ridge tops and side slopes on uplands of the Coastal Plain. They formed in loamy marine sediments, and generally occur on slopes between 1-60%. Runoff is medium to rapid and permeability is moderate to slow. Major uses are woodland. Cowarts loamy sand occurs along the length of the stream just south of the easement edges and is scattered about the project vicinity. Goldsboro sandy loam. This is a very deep, moderately well-drained soil that occurs on marine terraces and uplands of the Coastal Plain. They formed in marine or fluviomarine deposits, and generally occur on slopes between 0-10%. Runoff is negligible to medium and permeability is moderate. Major uses are cropland. Goldsboro sandy loam is found scattered all over the project site and in the surrounding areas. Lynchburg sandy loam. This is a very deep, somewhat poorly drained soil that occurs on marine terraces and flats of the Coastal Plain. They formed in marine or fluviomarine deposits, and generally occur on slopes between 0-5%. Runoff is negligible and permeability is moderate. Major uses are cropland, pasture, and forested. Lynchburg sandy loam occurs on the southeastern end of the easement, and is also scattered in the vicinity towards the east. Norfolk loamy sand. This is a very deep, well-drained soil that occurs on uplands or marine terraces of the Coastal Plain. They formed in marine or fluviomarine deposits, and generally occur on slopes between 0- 10%. Runoff is negligible to medium and permeability is moderate. Major uses are cleared land and cropland. Norfolk loamy sand occurs on the agricultural fields surrounding the project site and on the northernmost reach of the easement. Rains sandy loam. This is a very deep, poorly drained soil that occurs on crests of the Coastal Plain. They formed in loamy and sandy marine deposits, and generally occur on slopes between 0-2%. Runoff is low and permeability is moderate. Major uses are forest and cropland. Rains sandy loam occurs in a forested area in the easternmost segment of the easement. Toisnot loam. This is a shallow, poorly drained soil that occurs shallow drainage ways of the upper Coastal Plain. They formed in fluvial or marine sediments, and generally occur on slopes between 0-2%. Runoff is slow to ponded and permeability is slow. Major uses are woodland. Toisnot loam occurs along the forested reach that extends out from reach K25A of the easement. Udorthents, loamy. This is a very deep, well-drained soil that occurs on the Coastal Plain. They formed in loamy mine spoil or earthy fill, and generally occur on slopes between 0-6%. Runoff is low. Udorthents occur in segments along the left banks of an unnamed tributary to Poplar Creek in northwestern portions of the easement. 2.3 Existing Vegetative Communities Current land use in the vicinity of the project is primarily composed of pasture, forest, and row crop. There are low-density residential lots, maintained vegetation, and two-lane roads also present in the area surrounding the project. The site viability letter from DWR in Appendix B provides details on land-uses within the riparian areas on the site. Forested riparian areas lack a well-developed understory and shrub strata. These areas most closely resemble a disturbed Coastal Plain Small Stream Swamp and are dominated by hardwoods and loblolly Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 7 November 2017 pine (Pinus taeda). Canopy species include loblolly pine, black gum (Nyssa biflora), red maple (Acer rubrum), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and various oaks (Quercus spp.). Sub-canopy species include sweet bay magnolia shrubs (Magnolia virginiana) and the main herbaceous species are giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea) and Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vinenium). Some exotics were noted, including Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum), and Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica). Chinese privet and Japanese stiltgrass are widespread and locally dense. Photos of the current site conditions can be found in Appendix D. Riparian Areas An Existing Conditions Map is provided in Figure 3. Reach KZ0 is 341 linear feet and flows west through forest and cultivated fields to a confluence with KZ1. There is a dual pipe (24” & 18” CPP) stream crossing approximately 100 feet upstream of the confluence with KZ1. The riparian buffer of this reach is primarily comprised of a narrow fringe of native hardwoods, shrubs, and invasive vegetation, along with soybean fields. Neuse riparian buffer restoration is proposed for riparian buffer credit in currently cultivated areas while preservation is proposed in currently forested areas. Reach KZ0 is not subject to the Neuse Buffer Protection Rule 15A NCAC 02B .0233 and is therefore proposed to generate buffer mitigation credit under 15A NCAC 02B .0295 (o)(3) and (o)(4). Reach KZ1 is 863 linear feet and flows southwest through a hardwood forest to KZ2. Reach KZ2 is 621 linear feet and flows southwest through a hardwood forest to a confluence with KZ4. Reach KZ4 is 1145 linear feet and flows northwest through a hardwood forest and cultivated fields to KZ6 at an 84” CMP under Yelverton Grove Rd. Reach KZ6 is 1258 linear feet and flows northwest through cultivated fields, residential lots, and forested areas to MI1. Reach MI1 is 2179 linear feet and flows northwest through active pasture to the confluence with PC1. A 48” CPP farm crossing is located 1350 feet downstream from KZ6. The riparian buffers of these reaches are primarily comprised of native hardwoods, shrubs, invasive vegetation, soybean fields, active pasture, and a Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) area comprised of mature loblolly pines (Pinus taeda) and tulip poplars (Liriodendron tulipifera). For these reaches, Neuse riparian buffer restoration is proposed for riparian buffer credit in current cultivation and non-forested pasture areas while preservation is proposed in currently forested areas. As for riparian buffers located within the CREP area, no riparian buffer mitigation is proposed. All of these reaches (KZ1, KZ2, KZ4, KZ6, and MI1) are subject to the Neuse Buffer Protection Rule 15A NCAC 02B .0233 and are therefore being proposed to generate buffer mitigation credit under 15A NCAC 02B .0295 (n) and (o)(5) Reach KZ3 is 194 linear feet and flows southwest through a maintained corridor surrounded by a CREP area comprised of mature loblolly pines (Pinus taeda) and tulip poplars (Liriodendron tulipifera). Due to the CREP area, no riparian buffer restoration or preservation is proposed. This reach is subject to the Neuse Buffer Protection Rule 15A NCAC 02B .0233. Reach KZ5 is 152 linear feet and flows southwest through cultivated soybean fields to a confluence with KZ4. No riparian vegetation is present on this stream. Neuse riparian restoration along this reach is proposed from top of bank back to a maximum of 200 feet to generate nutrient offset credit. This reach is not subject to the Neuse Buffer Protection Rule 15A NCAC 02B .0233. Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 8 November 2017 Reach PC1 is 605 linear feet and flows southwest through a hardwood forest with many dead trees present within the impoundment. Reach PC2 is 373 linear feet and reach PC3 is 1153 linear feet, and they both flow south through active pasture with no existing riparian buffer. Neuse riparian buffer restoration is proposed for riparian buffer credit in active pasture areas while preservation is proposed in currently forested areas. All of these reaches (PC1, PC2, and PC3) are subject to the Neuse Buffer Protection Rule 15A NCAC 02B .0233 and are therefore being proposed to generate buffer mitigation credit under 15A NCAC 02B .0295 (n) and (o)(5). Figure 4 shows where riparian buffer credit and nutrient offset credit are proposed to be generated for this site. Areas that are along the streams, but are not identified in Figure 4 to be generating mitigation credit for this BPDP, will be used by EBX to generate additional stream mitigation credit. The conservation easement boundary for the site is also provided in Figure 4. Figure 5 depicts the proposed stream credits being generated at the site. 2.4 Wetlands The US Fish and Wildlife Service National Wetland Inventory Map depicts three wetland areas within the site (Figure 8). One is mapped as PFO1C (Palustrine Forested Broad-Leaved Deciduous Seasonally Flooded) and is located along PC1B. The other two are mapped as PUBHx (Palustrine Unconsolidated Bottom Permanently Flooded Excavated) and located along K24. A wetland delineation was performed in December 2016. Wetland boundaries were delineated using current methodology outlined in the 1987 Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (DOA 1987) and Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Region (Version 2.0) (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 2010). A jurisdictional determination request was sent to the USACE on January 30, 2017. The jurisdictional wetland boundaries are depicted on Figure 3. No wetland areas are being proposed for wetland mitigation credit. 2.5 Threatened and Endangered Species Plants and animals with a federal classification of endangered (E) or threatened (T) are protected under provisions of Sections 7 and 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The US Fish and Wildlife Service database (updated 22 September 2010) lists four endangered species for Johnston County, North Carolina: red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis), Tar River spinymussel (Eliptio steinstansana), dwarf wedgemussel (Alasmidonta heterodon), and Michaux’s sumac (Rhus michauxii) (Table 2). The Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGPA) and prohibits take of bald and golden eagles. No protected species or potential habitat for protected species was observed during preliminary site evaluations. In addition to the USFWS database, the NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) GIS database was consulted to determine whether previously cataloged occurrences of protected species are mapped within one mile of the project Site. Results from NHP indicated that there is one known occurrence west of the Site within a one-mile radius of the project area. The NHP database documented a terrestrial habitat of Red-cockaded woodpecker historically mapped in 1999. Based on initial site investigations, no impacts to federally protected species are anticipated as a result of the proposed project. The proposed project offers some potential to greatly benefit the downstream water quality within the Upper Neuse sub-basin. A letter from the USFWS dated November 9, 2016 indicated that no adverse Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 9 November 2017 impacts to fish and wildlife are expected as part of the project. Documentation is included in Appendix B. Table 2. Federally Protected Species in Johnston County Common Name Scientific name Federal Status Habitat Present Record Status Vertebrate: Red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis E No Current Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus BGPA Yes Current Invertebrate: Tar River spinymussel Eliptio steinstansana E No Current Dwarf wedgemussel Alasmidonta heterodon) E No Current Vascular Plant: Michaux’s Sumac Rhus Michauxii E No Current E = Endangered; BGPA = Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act 2.6 Environmental and Cultural Constraints Environmental and cultural resources include historic and archeological resources located in or near the project parcel. RES has evaluated the Parcel’s existing and future conditions of cultural resources to determine potential project impacts. The evaluation focused primarily on the presence of hazardous materials, utilities and restrictive easements, rare/threatened/endangered species or critical habitats, cultural resources, and the potential for hydrologic trespass. A review of the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) GIS Web Service database did not reveal any listed or potentially eligible historic or archeological resources in the proposed project area. No architectural structures or archeological artifacts have been observed or noted during surveys of the site for restoration purposes. RES submitted a request to the SHPO to search records to determine the presence of any areas of architectural, historic, or archaeological significance that may be affected by the Polecat Mitigation Site on March 14, 2017. In a letter dated November 17, 2016 the SHPO stated: There are no known historic properties in the proposed Polecat Mitigation area, which has never been surveyed. There are several recorded archaeological sites in the upland portions of Polecat Drainage Area, as mapped in Figure 5, and unrecorded historic properties may be present in the parcels associated with this project. Given its topographic and geologic characteristics as a wetland drainage the 42-acre proposed Polecat Site Easement itself is unlikely to contain significant archaeological sites, and we do not recommend a survey for historic properties at this time. However, there is one historic cemetery located approximately 150 feet south of reach K20, as mapped in Figure 3. Protective measures should be taken to ensure that the cemetery is avoided during mitigation activities. Cemeteries are protected under North Carolina General Statute Chapter 65. If unmarked human skeletal remains are encountered during mitigation, the provisions of North Carolina General Statute Chapter 70, Article 3 apply, and the State Archaeologist, Steve Claggett, should be contacted immediately. In addition, ground-disturbing mitigation activities should immediately cease if human remains are encountered. Correspondence is provided in Appendix B. Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 10 November 2017 2.7 FEMA Floodplain/Floodway Mapping Polecat Creek within the project area is mapped within a FEMA 100-year floodplain (Zone AE) (Figure 8). RES will conduct a FEMA flood study to either obtain a No-Rise Certification or CLOMR/ LOMR from the Johnston County floodplain administrator. Construction access is slightly constrained in some areas by existing mature hardwood vegetation. A tree survey will be conducted to design the mitigation measures and access to minimize impacts to specimen trees. 3 RIPARIAN RESTORATION AND PRESERVATION PLAN Riparian restoration and preservation adjacent to streams are shown in Figure 4, and were approved by the DWR in their Site Viability letter dated October 19, 2016 and attached in Appendix B. All restoration and preservation activities will begin from the tops of the stream banks and extend outward a maximum of 200’ perpendicular to the stream channel. The restoration of plant communities within the Parcel will not only provide stabilization and improve water quality within the easement limits, but also provide ecological benefits to the entire watershed. Vegetation within riparian buffers can vary depending on disturbance regime and adjacent community types, so the Neuse riparian buffer and other riparian areas located within the conservation easement will be planted with appropriate native species observed in the surrounding forest those known to occur in similar environments. All riparian restoration activities will commence in concurrence with the stream mitigation activities and not before. Therefore, the mitigation area where riparian restoration is being performed may be altered slightly depending on the approval of the Stream Mitigation Plan for the Stream Mitigation Bank. The riparian restoration areas will be surveyed and information provided in the As-Built report. All applicable federal, state, and local documentation, permits, and/or authorizations will be acquired as part of implementing the above-mentioned mitigation plan and will be provided to DWR as part of the As-Built Report. 3.1 Parcel Preparation Preparation inside of the parcel during riparian restoration activities will include various stabilization efforts in order to minimize the chances of non-diffuse flow. A combination of silt fencing, erosion control wattles, temporary seeding, and erosion control matting will be used to reduce erosion and stabilize soil in riparian areas during any land disturbance activities. These erosion control measures shall be inspected and properly maintained at the end of each working day to ensure measures are functioning properly until permanent vegetation is established. Disturbed areas shall be temporarily seeded within 10 working days and upon completion of final grading, permanent vegetation shall be established for all disturbed areas. After construction activities, the subsoil will be scarified and any compaction will be deep tilled before the topsoil is placed back over the site. Any topsoil that is removed during construction will be stockpiled and placed over the site during final soil preparation. This process should provide favorable soil conditions for plant growth. Temporary and permanent riparian seeding shall be done in accordance with the erosion control plan. Bare root plantings and live stakes shall be planted according to detail shown in the planting plan. Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 11 November 2017 3.2 Riparian Restoration Activities The current land uses adjacent to the streams on the Bank Parcel is a mixture of pasture, hay fields, and row-crops. Where livestock are present, RES will install cattle exclusion fencing to exclude access to riparian areas and their associated streams. All fencing will be installed to NRCS specifications. All riparian restoration areas will be planted from top of bank back at least 50’ from the stream with bare root tree seedlings on an 8 by 8-foot spacing to achieve an initial density of 680 trees per acre. The buffered channels will provide water quality and habitat functions within the sensitive Neuse River watershed, such as nutrient and sediment removal, filtration of runoff, and improved aquatic and terrestrial habitat. Some areas adjacent to the forested areas may require maintenance due to the rapid regeneration of some species, such as red maple (Acer rubrum) and sweetgum. Rapidly regenerating species and invasive species (e.g. privet) may develop greater individual species density and create a less diverse mix. Minimal maintenance is anticipated due to the past cultivation history. 3.3 Riparian Preservation Activities Buffer preservation is proposed along Reaches KZ0, KZ1, and KZ2. The current land use in this area is mature hardwood forest. Preservation activities will consist of installing fencing and permanently protecting the buffer from cutting, clearing, filling, grading, and similar activities that would affect the functioning of the buffer. Buffer preservation can only generate buffer mitigation credit and is not transferrable into nutrient offset credits. 3.4 Planting Plan Revegetation of the site will include controlling invasive species growth and planting at least 4 native hardwood bare root trees planted at a density to ensure a density of 260 stems per acres at the completion of monitoring. No one tree species will be greater than 50% of the established stems. Coastal Plain Small Stream Swamp will be the target community type and will be used for all areas within the project. The community is defined by Schafale and Weakely (1990). The initial planting of bare root trees will occur in winter 2017 or during stream restoration work whichever comes last. Tree species specified for planting on the Polecat Site are shown in Table 3. Table 3. Polecat Site Tree Planting List Common Name Scientific Name Indicator Growth Rate Bald Cypress Taxodium distichum OBL rapid Black gum Nyssa biflora OBL moderate Oak, Overcup Quercus lyrata OBL moderate American sycamore Platanus occidentalis FACW rapid Oak, Swamp Chestnut Quercus michauxii FACW moderate Oak, Willow Quercus phellos FACW rapid River Birch Betula nigra FACW rapid Pawpaw Asimina tribola FAC moderate Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 12 November 2017 3.5 Easement Boundaries and Fencing Easement boundaries will be identified in the field to ensure clear distinction between the Parcel and adjacent properties. Boundaries may be identified by cattle fence, marker, bollard, post, tree-blazing, or other means as allowed by site conditions and/or conservation easement. Boundaries will be marked with signs identifying the property as a mitigation site, and will include the name of the long-term steward and a contact number. Boundary markers disturbed, damaged, or destroyed will be repaired and/or replaced on an as needed basis. The easement boundary will be checked annually as part of monitoring activities and the conditions as well as any maintenance performed will be reported in the annual monitoring reports to NC DWR. All areas proposed as buffer preservation credit will be encompassed within the easement boundaries. 3.6 Proposed Credit Release Schedule Upon submittal of all appropriate documentation by the Sponsor, and subsequent approval by DWR, it is agreed that the mitigation credits associated with the Polecat Bank Parcel will be released as described in Table 4 below: Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 13 November 2017 Table 4. Credit Release Schedule for Riparian Buffer and Nutrient Offset Credits Task Project Milestone % Credit Available for Sale 1 Instrument and BPDP Approved by DWR, Conservation Easement Recorded* and Financial Assurance Posted 20 2 Mitigation Site Earthwork, Planting and Installation of Monitoring Devices Completed 20 3 Monitoring Financial Assurance Posted and Approval of As-Built Report 10 4 Monitoring Report #1: Approved by the DWR** 10 5 Monitoring Report #2: Approved by the DWR** 10 6 Monitoring Report #3: Approved by the DWR** 10 7 Item B (1) of Section X in this Instrument has been completed and approved by DWR. 5 No remaining credits will be released until the conservation easement has been assigned to an approved land trust or stewardship 8 Monitoring Report #4: Approved by the DWR** 5 9 Monitoring Report #5: Approved by the DWR** and final site visit by DWR has been conducted 10 Total 100% * For specification, please see Section V in this Instrument ** DWR Approval provided upon a determination that the site is meeting success criteria contained within the approved BPDP 4 MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE PLAN 4.1 Monitoring Protocol and Success Criteria Riparian buffer vegetation monitoring will be based on the CVS-EEP Protocol for Recording Vegetation Level 1-2 Plot Sampling Only Version 4.0. Annual vegetation monitoring will occur each year for a minimum of five (5) years and will be conducted during the fall season with the first year occurring at least 5 months from initial planting. Seventeen vegetation monitoring plots will be installed a minimum of 100 m2 in size, and will cover at least two percent of the 21.44 acres of riparian restoration area. Plots will be randomly placed throughout the planted Neuse buffer zones and nutrient offset mitigation area and will be representative of the crediting areas. The following data will be recorded for all trees in the plots: species, common names, height, planting date (or volunteer), and grid location. Photos Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 14 November 2017 will be taken from all photo points each monitoring year and provided in the annual reports. The measures of vegetative success for the Parcel will be the survival of at least 4 native hardwood tree species, where no one species is greater than 50% of the established stems, established at a density of at least 260 planted trees per acre at the end of Year 5. Native volunteer species may be included to meet the performance standards upon DWR approval. Invasive and noxious species will be monitored and controlled so that none become dominant or alter the desired community structure of the site. RES must monitor the stream mitigation bank for a minimum of seven years, or until IRT approval. Therefore, plots placed within riparian restoration areas that are outside of the mitigation area for buffer and nutrient offset credits will be monitored in accordance with the monitoring protocol in the Polecat Stream Mitigation Plan. 4.2 Adaptive Management Plan & Parcel Maintenance Adaptive measures will be developed or appropriate remedial actions taken in the event that the site, or a specific component of the site, fails to achieve the defined success criteria. Remedial actions will be designed to achieve the success criteria specified in this BPDP, and will include identification of the causes of failure, remedial design approach, work schedule, and monitoring criteria that will take into account physical and climatic conditions. Initial plant maintenance may include a one-time mowing, prior to initial planting to remove undesirable species. If mowing is deemed necessary by RES during the monitoring period, RES must receive approval by the DWR prior to any mowing activities within Zone 1 and Zone 2 of the Neuse buffers to ensure that no buffer violations have been performed. Failure to receive approval from DWR to mow within the Neuse buffer, as defined in 15A NCAC 02B .0233, could result in Neuse buffer violations and violations of the conservation easement. If necessary, RES will develop a species-specific control plan. 4.3 Long Term Management Plan EBX–Neuse I, LLC (EBX), acting as the Bank Sponsor, will record a Conservation Easement with the Johnston County Register of Deeds Office for this site. The Conservation Easement will be assigned to the North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation (NCWHF). All monitoring activities, including periodic inspections of the site to ensure that restrictions required in the Conservation Easement are upheld, are the responsibility of EBX-Neuse I, LLC until the Bank Parcel is transferred to the NCWHF. Endowment funds required to uphold the Polecat Bank Parcel conservation easement in perpetuity shall be negotiated prior to site transfer to the NCWHF. The Bank Sponsor will ensure that the Conservation Easement has allowed for the implementation of an initial monitoring phase, which will be developed during the design phase and conducted by the Bank Sponsor. The Conservation Easement will allow for yearly monitoring and, if necessary, maintenance of the Site during the initial monitoring phase. These activities will be conducted in accordance with the terms and conditions of the RES Neuse Riparian Buffer and Nutrient Offset Umbrella Mitigation Banking Instrument made and entered into by EBX-Neuse I, LLC and NC DWR. Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 15 November 2017 5 FINANCIAL ASSURANCE The Sponsor will provide financial assurances in the form of Performance Bonds sufficient to assure one- hundred percent (100%) completion of all mitigation work, required reporting and monitoring, and any remedial work required. Financial assurances will be payable at the direction of the NC DWR to its designee or to a standby trust. Financial assurances structured to provide funds to the NC DWR in the event of default by the Bank Sponsor are not acceptable. The initial performance bond will be in the amount of at least $150,000 and shall be able to cover 100% of the costs associated with construction of the riparian restoration areas. The monitoring bond shall be in the amount of at least $100,000 and shall be able to cover 100% of the costs associated with the monitoring and maintenance of the riparian restoration areas for five years. Performance bonds for monitoring shall be renewed to cover the next years monitoring period, with confirmation of renewal provided to DWR with each annual monitoring report when applicable. DWR reserves the right to alter the credit release schedule if monitoring reports are submitted without proof of bond renewals when applicable. 6 MITIGATION POTENTIAL The Polecat Mitigation Bank Site presents 53.1 acres of permanent conservation easement in Johnston County, North Carolina. While this easement also encompasses areas for the Polecat Stream Mitigation Bank, the purpose of the Polecat Buffer & Nutrient Offset Bank is to generate Neuse riparian buffer mitigation and nutrient offset credits. Once finalized a conservation easement and final recorded plat will be provided in Appendix C. The width of the riparian restoration and preservation areas where buffer or nutrient offset credits are generated will begin at the most landward limit of the top of bank and extend landward to a distance of at least 50 feet perpendicular to the streams, but out to a maximum of 200 feet in most cases. This Bank has the potential to generate approximately 10.33 acres (449,975 ft2) of riparian buffer restoration credits, 0.44 acres (19,166 ft2) of riparian buffer preservation credits and 11.11 acres (25,253.25 lbs) of nitrogen nutrient offset credits. The riparian buffer mitigation credits generated will service Neuse buffer impacts within the USGS 8-digit HUC 03020201 of the Neuse River Basin, excluding the Falls Lake Watershed. The Nitrogen nutrient offsets generated will service nutrient load reduction requirements where payments are authorized in 15A NCAC 02B .0240 within the USGS 8-digit HUC 03020201, excluding the Falls Lake Watershed. The Sponsor will maintain 3 credit ledgers. One ledger will account for buffer Restoration credits, one ledger will account for buffer Preservation credits, and one will account for Nitrogen nutrient offset credits. All mitigation credit assets shall be shown on these credit ledgers. The total potential mitigation credits that the Polecat Buffer & Nutrient Offset Bank will generate are summarized in Table 5; Figure 4. Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 16 November 2017 Table 5. Proposed Mitigation Credits Riparian Buffer Credit Riparian Zone Credit Type Mitigation Type Acreage Credit Per Acre (sq ft) Ratio % Full Credit Mitigation Assets (ft2) A (0-50') Riparian Buffer Restoration 6.06 43,560 1:1 100 263,974 ft (6.06 ac.) Riparian Buffer Preservation: Subject Streams 1.97 43,560 10:1 100 8,581 ft (0.19 ac.) Riparian Buffer Preservation: Non-Subject Streams 0.52 43,560 5:1 100 4,530 ft (0.10 ac.) B (51-100') Riparian Buffer Restoration 4.27 43,560 1:1 100 186,001 ft (4.27 ac.) Riparian Buffer Preservation: Subject Streams 0.99 43,560 10:1 100 4,312 ft (0.09 ac.) Riparian Buffer Preservation: Non-Subject Streams 0.44 43,560 5:1 100 3,833 ft (0.08 ac.) TOTAL RESTORATION 10.33 449,975 ft2 includes ratios & % reductions TOTAL PRESERVATION (included in conservation easement) 3.92 *TOTAL PRESERVATION (used for buffer mitigation credit) (19,166 ft2) 0.44 acres includes ratios & % reductions Nutrient Offset Credit Zone Credit Type Mitigation Type Acreage Credit Per Acre (lbs) Ratio Mitigation Assets (lbs) 0-100’ Nitrogen Restoration 4.09 2,273.02 N/A 9,926.65 101-200’ Nitrogen Restoration 7.02 2,273.02 N/A 15,956.60 TOTAL NITROGEN OFFSETS 11.11 2,273.02 N/A 25,253.25 *According to 15A NCAC 02B .0295 (o) (4) and (5), “the area of preservation credit within a buffer mitigation site shall comprise of no more than 25% of the total area of buffer mitigation”. All riparian restoration proposed in the table above will be generated on land determined by DWR as being agricultural. Therefore, the 10.33 acres (449,975 ft²) of riparian buffer restoration credits shown in the table above, can be used for either Neuse riparian buffer credits or Nitrogen nutrient offset credits, but not both. Riparian Buffer Preservation credits cannot be converted into nutrient offset credits on this site. The Sponsor must submit a written request and receive written approval from DWR prior to any credit conversions and transfers to the buffer and nutrient offset credit ledgers. With each conversion and transfer request submitted to the DWR, the Sponsor will provide all updated credit ledgers showing all transactions that have occurred up to the date of the request. Polecat Parcel Development Package Buffer/Nutrient Offset Site 17 November 2017 7 REFERENCES NCDENR. 2009. “Neuse River Basinwide Water Quality Plan.” Division of Water Quality. http:// http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/wq/ps/bpu/basin/neuse/2009. (October 2013). NCDENR. 2010. “N.C. Wetland Assessment Method User Manual Version 4.1.” N.C. Wetland Functional Assessment Team. NC Environmental Management Commission. 2014. Rule 15A NCAC 02B.0295 - Mitigation Program Requirements for the Protection and Maintenance of Riparian Buffers. Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina, Third Approximation. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, Division of Parks and Recreation, NCDENR, Raleigh, NC. APPENDIX Appendix A. Supporting Figures Figure 1. Service Area Map Figure 2. Project Vicinity Map Figure 3. Existing Conditions Figure 4. Conceptual Design Plan for Riparian Buffer and Nutrient Offset Credit Determination Figure 5. Conceptual Design and Credit determination for Stream and Wetland Mitigation Figure 6. USGS Topographic Map Figure 7. Soils Map Figure 8. National Wetlands Inventory Map Figure 9: FEMA Map ^_ Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan, EsriJapan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), MapmyIndia,NGCC, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community 0 10 205 Miles Figure 1.Service Area MapPolecat Mitigation Site Legend Buffer Service Area - HUC 03020201 excluding Falls Lake Watershed Nutrient Ser vice Area- HUC 03020201 excluding Falls Lake Watershed L Document Path: D:\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\NC\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\BPDP\Figure 9_Polecat Service Area Map.mxd1 in ch = 10 miles Poleca t Mitigation Site ^_ Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan, Esri Japan,METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), MapmyIndia, NGCC, ©OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community 0 2 41 Miles Figure 2. Vicinity MapPolecat Mitigation Site Johnston County L Document Path: C:\Users\mdeangelo\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\nc\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\Mitigation Plan\Figure 1_Polecat Vicinity_10.3.mxd1 in = 2 miles Polecat Mitigation Site Latitude: 35.476199°N Longitude: -78.312849°W Legend ^_Polecat Mitigation Site TLW - 03020201140010 PC 3 PC 2 PC 1 MI 1 KZ 6 KZ 4 KZ 5 KZ 3 KZ 2 KZ 1 KZ 0 Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS,USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community 0 1,000 2,000500Feet Figure 3. Existing Conditions Map Polecat Mitigation Site Legend Proposed Easment- 53.1 Ac Existing Streams Existing Wetlands L Document Path: C:\Users\mdeangelo\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\nc\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\Mitigation Plan\Figure 7_Polecat Existing Conditions Map_10.3.mxd1 inch = 1,000 feet MI1 KZ6 KZ5KZ4PC3 KZ2PC1K Z 1P C 2 K Z 0 KZ3 Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community © 0 450225 Feet Figure 4. Conceptual PlanPolecat Mitigation Site JOHNSTON COUNTY, NC LEGEND Proposed Stream Alignment DitchProposed EasementBuffer Restoration (0-100') Buffer Preservation: Subject (0-100') Buffer Preservation: Non-Subject (0-100') Nutrient Offset (0-100') Nutrient Offset (101-200') Non-Credit Generating Areas Date: 1/22/2018 Drawn by: BPB Document Path: D:\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\NC\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\BPDP\Figure 4 - Buffer Conceptual - Polecat.mxdRiparian Zone Credit Type Mitigation Type Acreage Credit Per Acre (sq ft)Ratio % Full Credit Mitigation As s ets (ft2) Riparian Buffer Res toration 6.06 43,560 1:1 100 263,974 ft (6.06 ac.) Riparian Buffer Res toration 4.27 43,560 1:1 100 186,001 ft (4.27 ac.) 10.33 43,560 1:1 Zone Credit Type Mitigation Type Acreage Credit Per Acre (lbs )Ratio 0-100’Nitrogen Res toration 4.09 2,273.02 N/A 101-200’Nitrogen Res toration 7.02 2,273.02 N/A 11.11 2,273.02 N/A 9,926.65 15,956.60 TOTAL NITROGEN OFFSETS 25,253.25 449,975 ft (10.33 ac.) Pres ervation: Subject Streams Pres ervation:Non-Subject Streams Pres ervation: Subject Streams Pres ervation: Non-Subject Streams (us ed for buffer mitigation credit)(19,166 ft2) 0.44 acresincludes ratios & % reductions Nutrient Offs et Credit Mitigation Ass ets (lbs ) TOTAL RESTORATION TOTAL PRESERVATION (included in cons ervation eas ement)3.92 *TOTAL PRESERVATION 4,312 ft (0.09 ac.) Riparian Buffer 0.44 43,560 5:1 100 3,833 ft (0.08 ac.) 43,560 5:1 100 4,530 ft (0.10 ac.) B (51-100') Riparian Buffer 0.99 43,560 10:1 100 Riparian Buffer Credit A (0-50') Riparian Buffer 1.97 43,560 10:1 100 8,581 ft (0.19 ac.) Riparian Buffer 0.52 MI1 KZ 6 KZ5 KZ4 KZ 3 P C 3 KZ2PC1KZ1 PC2 K Z 0 KZ4 KZ1 M I 1 Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID,IGN, and the GIS User Community 0 600300 Feet Figure 5. Conceptual Design- Stream Assets Polecat Mitigation Site Johnston County, North Carolina Legend Restoration Enhancement I Enhancement II Enhancement III Proposed Easement- 53.1 Acres ©Document Path: C:\Users\jschmid\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\NC\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\Mitigation Plan\Figure 10_Polecat Conceptual.mxdProposed Reach Mitigation Type Proposed Length (LF)Mitigation Ratio Base SMUs Adjusted SMUs KZ1 Enhancement III 485 1 : 5.0 97 97 KZ1 Enhancement III 378 1 : 5.0 76 76 KZ2 P1 Restoration 621 1 : 1.0 621 699 KZ4 P1/ P2 Restoration 1,145 1 : 1.0 1,145 1,258 KZ4 Enhancement I 99 1 : 1.5 66 66 KZ6 P2 Restoration 1,258 1 : 1.0 1,258 1,306 MI1 P1 Restoration 1,227 1 : 1.0 1,227 1,227 MI1 P1 Restoration 952 1 : 1.0 952 1,014 KZ3 P2 Restoration 183 1 : 1.0 183 183 KZ5 P2 Restoration 152 1 : 1.0 152 152 PC1 Enhancement III 605 1 : 5.0 121 131 PC2 Enhancement II 373 1 : 2.5 149 149 PC3 Enhancement III 359 1 : 5.0 72 72 KZ0 Enhancement II 252 1 : 2.5 101 101 KZ0 Enhancement II 89 1 : 2.5 36 36 Total 8,178 6,256 6,567 Copyright:© 2013 National Geographic Society, i-cubed 0 2,000 4,0001,000 Feet Figure 6. USGS MapPolecat Mitigation Site Legend Proposed Easement - 53.1 Ac Target Parcels L Document Path: C:\Users\mdeangelo\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\nc\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\Mitigation Plan\Figure 2_Polecate USGS Topographic Map_10.3.mxd1 inch = 2,000 feet Ra Bb Ra Ly NoA Ly Ly Gr Ra GoA GoA Ra Ly GoA Ly Tn Ly NoA NoA NoA Ud GoA GoA NoB Ly GoA Ly Ly CoB GoA CoB NoA GeB GoA GeB GoA Ra NoA GoA GoA GoA GoA CoB NoA Ly NoB CoB NoA NoA Ra GoA NoB GoA GoA GoA Ly NoA NoA GeB Ud GoA Ud GoA Ra GoA GoA CoB GoA Ly UcC NoA GoA CoB UcC NoA GeB UcC GoA GoA GoA GoA GoA GoA GeB GoA Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS,USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community 0 1,000 2,000500Feet Figure 7. Soils MapPolecat Mitigation Site Legend Proposed Easement Nonhydric 0% Hydric inclusions 1-89% Hydric 90-100% L Document Path: C:\Users\jschmid\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\NC\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\BPDP\Figure 7 - Soils - Polecat.mxd1 inch = 1,000 feet Soils: NRCS Johnston County Soils Survey PFO1A PFO1C PFO1A PFO1Ch PFO4A PFO4B PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHx PUBHh PFO1C PUBHx PUBHh PUBHx PUBHx Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS,USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community 0 1,000 2,000500Feet Figure 8. NWI MapPolecat Mitigation Site Legend Proposed Easement- 53.1 Ac. Existing Streams NWI Wetlands L Document Path: C:\Users\mdeangelo\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\nc\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\BPDP\Figure 3_Polecat NWI Map.mxd1 inch = 1,000 feet Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS,USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community 0 1,000 2,000500Feet Figure 9. FEMA MapPolecat Mitigation Site Legend Proposed Easment- 53.1 Ac. Zone AE L Document Path: C:\Users\mdeangelo\Dropbox (RES)\@RES GIS\Projects\nc\Polecat (bank site)\MXD\BPDP\Figure 6_Polecat FEMA Map.mxd1 inch = 1,000 feet Appendix B. Correspondence North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources State Historic Preservation Office Ramona M. Bartos, Administrator Governor Pat McCrory Office of Archives and History Secretary Susan Kluttz Deputy Secretary Kevin Cherry Location: 109 East Jones Street, Raleigh NC 27601 Mailing Address: 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 Telephone/Fax: (919) 807-6570/807-6599 November 17, 2016 John Thomas Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District Raleigh Regulatory Field Office 3331 Heritage Trade, Suite 105 Wake Forest, North Carolina 27587 Re: Proposed Polecat Mitigation Site, Near Hill Road and Mallard Road, Smithfield, Johnston County, ER 16-2087 Dear Mr. Thomas: We have received a public notice concerning the above-referenced project. We have reviewed the information provided and offer the following comments: There are no known historic properties in the proposed Polecat Mitigation area, which has never been surveyed. There are several recorded archaeological sites in the upland portions of the Polecat Drainage Area, as mapped in Figure 2, and unrecorded historic properties may be present in the parcels associated with this project. Given its topographic and geologic characteristics as a wetland drainage the 42-acre proposed Polecat Site Easement itself is unlikely to contain significant archaeological sites, and we do not recommend a survey for historic properties at this time. However, there is one historic cemetery located approximately 150 feet south of reach K20, as mapped in Figure 7. Protective measures should be taken to ensure that the cemetery is avoided during mitigation activities. Cemeteries are protected under North Carolina General Statute Chapter 65. If unmarked human skeletal remains are encountered during mitigation, the provisions of North Carolina General Statute Chapter 70, Article 3 apply, and the State Archaeologist, Steve Claggett, should be contacted immediately. In addition, ground-disturbing mitigation activities should immediately cease if human remains are encountered. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-807-6579 or environmental.review@ncdcr.gov. In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the above referenced tracking number. Sincerely, Ramona M. Bartos mail to: Appendix C. Conservation Easement and Plat This appendix will be updated once the easement deeds and plats become available. Appendix D. Existing Conditions Photos Reach KZ1. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ1. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ2. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ2. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ3 at confluence with KZ4. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ4. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ4. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ5. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ6. 01/10/2018 Reach MI1. 01/10/2018 Reach MI1. 01/10/2018 Reach PC1. 01/10/2018 Reach PC2. 01/10/2018 Reach PC2. 01/10/2018 Reach PC3. 01/10/2018 Reach PC3. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ20. 01/10/2018 Reach KZ20. 01/10/2018